Money Matters in Cambodia: What Travelers Need to Know

When traveling to Cambodia, one of the first things you'll notice is that the country operates on two currencies: the Cambodian Riel (KHR) and the US Dollar (USD). Understanding how this works can save you a lot of confusion — and maybe a few bucks — during your trip.

Two Currencies, One Wallet

US Dollars are widely accepted across Cambodia, especially for larger purchases, while Riel is mostly used for smaller transactions and change (e.g., if your bill is $3.50, you might pay $4 and get 2,000 Riel back). The exchange rate hovers around 4,000 Riel to 1 USD, but shops and restaurants often round it to 4,000 for simplicity.

ATMs: Your Best Friend

ATMs are plentiful in cities and tourist areas, and most dispense both US Dollars and Cambodian Riel — you can usually select which one you prefer. There’s an ATM conveniently located at the airport too, perfect for grabbing cash when you arrive. Keep in mind that withdrawal fees range from $4 to $6 per transaction, so it's worth taking out a larger amount at once to minimize fees.

Crisp Bills, Please!

One important thing to remember: Cambodians are very particular about USD bills. Torn, worn, or even slightly damaged notes are often refused, so make sure the cash you bring or withdraw is in good condition. Banks and money changers in your home country may not be as fussy, but here, everyone inspects bills carefully — and you should too! Scrutinize the bills you receive as locals do to avoid ending up with money that no one will accept.

Small Change is King

While larger bills ($20, $50, $100) are handy for hotel stays or tours, smaller denominations ($1, $5, $10) are far more useful for everyday expenses like tuk-tuk rides, street food, and market haggling. It’s a good idea to break your bigger bills at supermarkets or major stores when you can. Vendors and drivers might not have enough change — or may claim not to — leaving you stuck overpaying.

Watch Out for 'Ghost Money'

Though it’s very rare, there’s a small chance you might come across counterfeit bills, especially fake Chinese 'ghost money' — decorative notes used in spiritual rituals, which resemble real cash. It’s wise to give unfamiliar bills a quick look to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Final Tip: Carry Both Currencies

For a smooth experience, carry a mix of USD for bigger spends and Riel for small purchases and tips. Most vendors will accept USD, but having Riel for quick transactions helps avoid the hassle of getting change.

With a little preparation, navigating Cambodia’s dual-currency system is easy — and you’ll be enjoying your adventures (and that street-side iced coffee) stress-free in no time!